Tai chi and meditation: A conceptual (re)synthesis?

Full Abstract

The aim of this article is to review the literature on Tai Chi and meditation. A coherent construct is developed that includes a comparative analysis and conceptual synthesis of existing theories. The authors discuss a set of assumptions that justify this synthesis; they also argue that this construct would facilitate greater understanding of Tai Chi from the perspective of meditation. Such synthesis may bring "additional" benefits to Tai Chi practitioners as they could recognize that this mind-body technique holds the essence of meditation. Within the scope of this article, the evidence shows a majority of common features when concerning Tai Chi and meditation. These mutual similarities should be taken into account when performing this type of mind-body medicine by patients and/or therapists. Finally, the authors suggest that this inspiring compilation of movements and mindfulness can be used for practical purposes.

Author information

Author/s: Posadzki, Paul (P); Jacques, Samantha (S);

Affiliation: University of East Anglia, School of Medicine, Health Policy.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association (J Holist Nurs), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Jun; vol 27 (issue 2) : pp 103-14

Dates: Created 2009/05/15; Completed 2009/08/19;

PMID: 19443697, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 8/21/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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